Online & ATM Safety

Online & ATM Safety

Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal information (name, Social Security number, credit card number, etc.) without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes. This is a serious crime that can have devastating consequences as some victims must spend hundreds of dollars and many hours repairing their good name and credit record.
Bank of Labor will do whatever it takes to keep your online identity safe. The following are some helpful tips that will assist you in preventing identity theft.

Beware of Phishing

Phishing is a scam where online criminals try to lure personal information such as credit card numbers or bank account information from unsuspecting victims. Be aware of spoofed email or websites that look like they come from your bank or another trusted source in an attempt to deceive you.

Bank of Labor will NEVER request personal information by email or text message including account numbers, passwords, personal identification information or any other confidential customer information. Fraudulent emails may be designed to appear as though they are originated by Bank of Labor. Do not respond to any email request asking for personal or confidential information and do not click any links listed on that e-mail. These communications are not from Bank of Labor! Never give out any information that the Bank already has if you are contacted by phone, text message, or email.

If you contact us we may verify your information to confirm your identity but we will never contact you and ask for your debit/credit card number. If we need to contact you, it will always be done in a manner that protects your personal, confidential information and we will clearly identify ourselves. If you are unsure, contact us directly using our contact information on your card, statement or our website.

Protect Yourself Online

Install anti-malware software including virus and spyware protection and be sure to keep it up to date.

For additional information on what you can go to protect yourself online, go to www.onguardonline.gov.

Check Your Credit Report

Make a habit of checking your credit report. You can get a free copy of your credit report from the big three reporting agencies each year.

Practice ATM Safety

As with all financial transactions, please exercise discretion when using an automated teller machine (ATM) or night deposit facility. For your own safety, be careful. The following suggestions may be helpful.

Prepare for your transactions in advance (for instance, by filling out a deposit slip) to minimize your time at the ATM or night deposit facility.

Mark each transaction in your account record, but not while at the ATM or night deposit facility. Always save your ATM receipts. Don’t leave them at the ATM or night deposit facility because they may contain important account information.

Compare your records with the account statements you receive.

Don’t lend your ATM card to anyone.

Remember; do not leave your card at the ATM. Do not leave any documents at a night deposit facility.

Protect the secrecy of your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Protect your ATM card as though it were cash. Don’t tell anyone your PIN. Don’t give anyone information regarding your ATM card or PIN over the telephone. Never enter your PIN in any ATM that does not look genuine, has been modified, has a suspicious device attached, or is operating in a suspicious manner. Don’t write your PIN where it can be discovered. For example, don’t keep a note of your PIN in your wallet or purse.

Prevent others from seeing you enter your PIN by using your body to shield their view.

If you lose your ATM card or if it is stolen, promptly notify us. You should consult the other disclosures you have received about electronic fund transfers for additional information about what to do if your card is lost or stolen.

When you make a transaction, be aware of your surroundings. Look out for suspicious activity near the ATM or night deposit facility, particularly if it is after sunset. At night, be sure to use a facility (including the parking area and walkways) that is well lit. Consider having someone accompany you when you use the facility, especially after sunset. If you observe any problem, go to another ATM or night deposit facility.

Don’t accept assistance from anyone you don’t know when using an ATM or night deposit facility.

If you notice anything suspicious or if any other problem arises after you have begun an ATM transaction, you may want to cancel the transaction, pocket your card and leave. You might consider using another ATM or coming back later.

Don’t display your cash; pocket it as soon as the ATM transaction is completed and count the cash later when you are in the safety of your own car, home or other secure surrounding.

At a drive-up facility, make sure all the car doors are locked and all of the windows are rolled up, except the driver’s window. Keep the engine running and remain alert to your surroundings.

We want the ATM and night deposit facility to be safe and convenient for you. Therefore, please tell us if you know of any problem with a facility. For instance, let us know if a light is not working or there is any damage to a facility. Please report any suspicious activity or crimes to both the operator of the facility and the local law enforcement officials immediately.